The Ultimate Vacation Rental Cleaning Checklist

As a vacation rental host, creating an inviting and clean environment is key to providing a positive guest experience. 

Cleanliness directly impacts guest reviews, your vacation rental rating, and your future bookings. Whether you’re cleaning between guests yourself or hiring a cleaning service, a comprehensive cleaning checklist ensures that nothing is overlooked.

According to data from Cleanster, 97% of guests consider cleanliness as the most important factor when booking an accommodation.

Here’s your ultimate vacation rental cleaning checklist, broken down by room and key tasks, to help keep your rental guest-ready.

General Tips for Vacation Rental Cleaning

• Set a Cleaning Schedule: Establish a routine between each guest’s stay. The more organised you are, the less time it will take.

• Use Quality Cleaning Supplies: Invest in eco-friendly, high-quality cleaning products and tools to ensure thoroughness and a fresh environment.

• Focus on High-Touch Areas: Disinfecting areas that guests commonly touch (like light switches, doorknobs, and remote controls) is crucial for hygiene.

• Prevent Pest Issues: Regularly inspect your property for potential pest entry points, such as gaps in doors or windows, and seal them. Empty trash bins promptly and store outdoor bins securely. Clean under appliances and ensure food is stored in airtight containers to deter pests.

• Don’t Forget Odors: Consider air fresheners or essential oils to leave a pleasant scent after cleaning, but avoid overly strong fragrances.

Vacation Rental Cleaning Checklist by Room

Entryway & Hallway

• Sweep/Vacuum floors and carpets to remove dirt and debris.

• Wipe down surfaces like coat racks, side tables, and mail holders.

• Clean the front door (including handles and glass) to make a good first impression.

• Remove clutter and leave only essentials (like a welcome mat or a small plant).

Living Room & Common Areas

• Dust all surfaces, including shelves, tables, and electronics (TVs, remotes, lamps).

• Wipe down and sanitise high-touch areas like doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, and coffee tables.

• Vacuum/Sweep the floor, especially under furniture, where dust and debris often accumulate.

• Fluff pillows and arrange furniture for a welcoming feel.

• Clean windows and mirrors, removing any streaks or smudges.

• Check for hidden messes, such as under couch cushions or behind furniture.

Kitchen

• Wipe down countertops and cabinets using a disinfectant.

• Clean and disinfect appliances (fridge, microwave, toaster, coffee maker). Don’t forget to wipe knobs, buttons, and handles.

• Empty and sanitise trash bins promptly to avoid attracting pests

• Deep clean the oven and stove (if applicable).

• Check the pantry and drawers to ensure utensils and plates are clean and well-organised.

• Sanitise high-touch areas, such as refrigerator handles, microwave buttons, and faucet handles.

• Clean the sink and garbage disposal. Make sure no food debris is left behind.

• Restock supplies: Ensure guests have fresh paper towels, dish soap, trash bags, and other kitchen essentials.

Bathrooms

• Clean the toilet (inside and out), paying attention to areas around the base and under the seat.

• Scrub the bathtub/shower and wipe down the tiles to remove soap scum, grime, and mildew.

• Clean the sink and countertop. Disinfect faucets and handles.

• Wipe mirrors to remove any streaks or water spots.

• Replace used towels with clean ones. Ensure there is a fresh hand towel and washcloth.

• Empty trash bins and replace liners.

• Restock toiletries: Provide fresh soap, shampoo, conditioner, toilet paper, and any other items guests may need.

• Check the shower curtain for mildew or mould, and make sure it’s properly hung.

Bedrooms

• Change linens: Wash and replace sheets, pillowcases, and blankets. Always make sure the bed is made neatly.

• Dust furniture: Clean nightstands, lamps, dressers, and shelves.

• Vacuum the carpet or sweep the floor, including under the bed.

• Wipe down light switches and high-touch areas.

• Check the closet for any missing hangers, extra pillows, or blankets.

• Make sure windows are clean, and ensure curtains are in good condition (free of dust or wrinkles).

• Inspect for any signs of pests, such as droppings or nests, to ensure your rental remains pest-free

• Check for any leftover items from previous guests under the bed or in drawers.

Outdoor Areas (if applicable)

• Sweep the patio or porch to remove debris like leaves and dirt.

• Wipe down outdoor furniture (chairs, tables, cushions).

• Clean the grill if guests have used it.

• Check for safety hazards (e.g., broken steps or loose handrails).

• Inspect and tidy the yard, ensuring trash bins are properly stored and gardens are neat.

Final Touches

• Air the vacation rental out by opening windows (if weather permits) to refresh the space.

• Check lighting in each room, replacing any burned-out bulbs.

• Ensure everything is in working order: From the Wi-Fi to the heating/cooling systems, make sure guests will be comfortable.

• Leave a welcome note or guidebook with check-in instructions, house rules, and local recommendations.

• Check the overall vibe: The space should look clean, cosy, and inviting. Walk through the home from a guest’s perspective to make sure nothing is overlooked.

Pro Tips for a Smooth Cleaning Process

1. Clean top to bottom: Start at the highest point (like dusting shelves) and work your way down to avoid cleaning areas twice.

2. Use a caddy for supplies: Keep all your cleaning products in a portable caddy for easy access while cleaning.

3. Don’t Overlook Pests: Look for signs of pest activity, such as droppings and address any issues immediately. Schedule regular pest control treatments to prevent infestations.

4. Stay organised: Break the cleaning process into stages (e.g., cleaning the bathrooms first, then bedrooms), and follow the same routine for each guest turnover.

5. Consider professional help: If cleaning is taking up too much of your time, hire a trusted cleaning service that specialises in vacation rentals.

Why Cleaning Can Be Overwhelming for Hosts

Keeping up with all the cleaning tasks listed above can be a time-consuming challenge, especially if you have multiple properties or if you’re handling it alone.

Plus, the pressure of ensuring everything is spotless before new guests arrive can sometimes lead to stress.

While cleaning is crucial, managing it doesn’t have to be a headache. The best way to keep everything on track is by leveraging mr.alfred’s operations app. 

This helps streamline operations, assign tasks, and receive updates without the hassle of managing everything manually.

Benefits of mr.alfred’s Operations App

• Streamlines Operations: Automates tasks and simplifies communication for a seamless workflow.

• Automates Tasks: Assign recurring tasks like pest control schedules, cleaning routines, and supply restocking without manual follow-up

• Improves Efficiency: Ensures tasks are assigned, tracked, and completed without delays.

• Significant Cost Savings: Reduces the time and expenses associated with manual oversight.

• Better Resource Allocation: Helps you optimise time and focus on enhancing the guest experience.

In Conclusion

A well-cleaned vacation rental creates an atmosphere that will impress guests, boost your ratings, and ensure repeat bookings. 

By following this comprehensive cleaning checklist, you’ll have a step-by-step guide to ensure your vacation rental is always ready for the next guest, every time. 

Cleanliness is a crucial part of the guest experience, and as a host, it’s your attention to detail that will make all the difference.

Managing the long list of cleaning, maintenance, and pest control tasks can feel overwhelming, but mr.alfred’s Operations App can simplify the process for you. Contact us for more details.